A couple months ago, I was the unlucky recipient of a speeding ticket. My lawbreaking ways proved costly, and I would’ve taken great joy in enclosing my fines in this note card  stating, “Your Blood Money is Enclosed.”  For those like myself who enjoy their correspondence with a side of cheekiness, Stationer 16 Sparrows has created a whole line of cards incorporating cute designs with witty—and sometimes naughty—comments. Cynical, funny, and a little bit sweet (just a little bit), this stationery is perfect for the sarcastic girl who cares enough to send the very best.  

From suitcases to Sprite, all the airlines are charging different fees for different items, and it almost seems one needs a spreadsheet to keep track of who's charging for what. Smarter Living has come to the rescue with just that, The Ultimate Guide to Airline Fees--a "one-stop reference guide" that breaks down all kinds of extra charges airline by airline. This will come in especially handy when comparing airfare. A lower base price may end up costing more by the time you add in your booking, bags, and beverages. Though I'm never excited about extra fees, at least now they won't come as a surprise.

Oh what a week it's been. Economy woes. Industry woes. And don't forget, Mercury is still in retrograde. Seriously, what we all could use is a retreat at a fabulous eco-hotel like Boon Hotel + Spa. Located in the Russian River Valley, it's close enough to be considered a staycation, but far enough to detatch yourself from the hustle and bustle. Whether you're taking a Boon bike ride, enjoying a spa treatment, or even spending some quality time with your pooch (yep, they take dogs), I can't think of a better way to take the edge off, can you?

 

I don't know about you, but I never feel the same when I have to pack a regular old toothbrush for my travels. But, lugging around my big Sonicare system is a royal pain as well. Now my dilemma is over with the Sonic Travel Toothbrush. It's portable and runs on a AAA battery so no charging is necessary. Buy one for yourself and the other Sonicare junkies in your life. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving.

We already know Toms shoes are awesome. Not only do they donate a pair for every pair you buy, but now they're offering the opportunity to give back and see some new places. By participating in their Shoe Drop, you will help to distribute shoes to children around the world and reach children in need. They're currently accepting applications to disbribute through the U.S. and Argentina with more locations to come. A company that donates shoes around the world and wants fabulous people to join the fun ... truly it doesn't get more awesome than that.

Normally the idea of sleeping on a plane conjures up thoughts of Ambien and a stiff neck. However, Jumbo Hostel sounds a little more accommodating. It's a hostel in Sweden that's actually a converted 747 jet. It offers 25 rooms and a luxury "cockpit suite." (Insert your own mile-high joke here.) In fact, the accomodations look so deluxe, I doubt you'll even need your neck pillow. If you're looking for a Euro lodging option that's anything but plain, you gotta check out this plane.

Some of the best things in life are deep: deep thoughts, deep sleep, if you grew up in the '70s--Deep Purple, and now, Benefit's Some Kind-a Gorgeous Deep. Created for darker skin, this easy foundation offers the same coverage and light consistency as the 1.0 version. Now everyone can be some kind-a gorgeous, which I think is some kind-a wonderful.

With restrictions and fees up the wazoo, it seems like airlines can't do anything right these days. That is, unless you're American Airlines. A strong supporter of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, American is offering five miles for each dollar you donate to the organization. So the next time you take that trip or upgrade your seat, you can also think about the difference you made in someone's life. Suddenly the skies are looking friendly again.

About 10 years ago, I took an amazing autumn trip to New England. My timing was perfect, and with the trees changing the most beautiful shades of orange and red, it truly was the most magical place on earth. I keep telling myself I have to experience such a fantastic sight again, and when I do, I'll be enlisting the help of this website, Yankee Foliage, to help plan my trip. With interactive color maps, blogs with foliage reports, and lists of scenic drives, I'll be able to time everything perfectly and I can, um, fall in love with the area all over again.

Bad economy got you down? Fret not, oh fabulous one. You can still travel like a world-class jet setter staying in some of the world's most luxury hotels for next to nothing. For 80 minutes on Wed, October 1 starting at 5 a.m. PST, LHW is offering a limited amount of rooms for $19.28--yes, as in 20 bucks--in celebration of their 80th anniversary. All you need to do is register on their website, get the coffee a-brewin', and reserve a room at one of the most renowned hotels in the world. With high-dollar choices like The James in Chicago and The Alex in NYC, the hardest part will be narrowing down just one. Happy trails!